A quartet of Arkwright Scholars

Congratulations to four Lower Sixth students from The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) who have been awarded Arkwright Engineering Scholarships.

The Arkwright Scholarships Trust administers one of the most prestigious scholarship schemes in the UK in order to inspire future leaders in engineering and related areas of design.

William Foster, Ben Swyer, Philip Robinson and Albert Gibbs attained their scholarships following a rigorous selection process, including an application form giving details of their Design and Technology project and a formal interview, held at Sheffield University. The scholarship provides each student with £600 for the two years of their Sixth Form career, to be spent on educational courses, software and books.

Each Arkwright Scholar also receives sponsorship and help and guidance from a mentor. Ben aims to pursue a career in mechanical or civil engineering and is being sponsored by Rolls Royce. William would like to work in Formula 1 aero-dynamics and is being sponsored by David Brown Gear Systems. Pilkington Glass sponsors Albert, whose ambition is to design custom products, such as bikes and cars. Philip aspires to become an officer in the Royal Engineers and is being sponsored by the Reece Foundation.

All the students expressed their pleasure in attaining their scholarships. Albert summed up their feelings by saying: “It’s a window of opportunity to help us into the world of engineering.”

Ken Depledge, Head of Design Technology at GSAL, said: “These four students are among the most able and talented design students at GSAL and their selection, following an intensive process, is testament to their skills and character.”